What Is IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) Process?

What Is IVF?

IVF stands for In Vitro Fertilization. It is a type of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) which is used for infertility treatment. In the process of IVF, eggs are taken from the ovaries by the help of a needle and then these eggs are fertilized with the sperm in a lab. After the process of fertilization, the eggs develop in the embryos. After three to five days of this process, the embryo is implanted in the uterus.

Process of IVF 

IVF is a process of fertilization in which an egg and sperm are manually combined in the laboratory. Then the embryo is implanted into the uterus. The process of IVF involves the following steps:

1. Stimulation of Ovaries

Fertility medications are prescribed to stimulate egg production in the ovaries. Some eggs don't develop or fertilize after egg retrieval so multiple eggs are required during the process. 

2. Transvaginal Ultrasound & Blood Test

To determine when the eggs will be ready for retrieval the doctor performs two tests: Transvaginal Ultrasound and Blood Test. A Transvaginal Ultrasound is done to examine the ovaries to monitor the development of follicles and a Blood Test is done to check the levels of the hormone called Estrogen and Progesterone. Estrogen levels increase as follicle develops while progesterone levels remain low until after ovulation.

(Also read: Success Rate of IVF)

3. Egg Retrieval from Ovaries

During the process of egg retrieval, you'll be anesthetized and given pain medication to reduce any discomfort. A transvaginal ultrasound is performed and a needle is attached with an ultrasound probe to retrieve eggs from ovarian follicles. Then these eggs are placed in a culture medium and incubated. 

4. Sperm Retrieval

Your partner is asked to provide a semen sample if you're using your partner's sperm. Donor sperm can also be used. Semen Sample can be produced by two methods: Masturbation or Testicular Aspiration. Then sperm is retrieved by the semen sample in the lab.

5. Fertilization of Eggs

Fertilization is done by attempting any of the following procedure:

• Conventional Insemination

In the process of Conventional Insemination healthy sperm and mature eggs are combined together and incubated to achieve fertilization.

• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)

In the process of ICSI, a single sperm is injected into each mature egg to achieve fertilization. ICSI is generally used when there is a low chance of fertilization.

(Also read: Risks of High Blood Pressure during pregnancy)

6. Embryo Transfer

Embryos are transferred in the woman's uterus after three to five days of retrieval and fertilization process. To transfer the embryos in the uterus a catheter is used. 

Result

If the IVF procedure is successful then the implantation occurs 8 to 12 days following egg retrieval. Your doctor will perform a blood test to detect whether you're pregnant or not. 

IVF Definition

IVF is a fertilization process in which surgically removed eggs are combined together with sperm in a laboratory and then the embryo is inserted into the uterus. It is used to treat infertility. 

(Also read: How much Bleeding during pregnancy is normal?)

IVF medical abbreviation

IVF stands for 'In Vitro Fertilization'.

Side Effects from IVF

Some side effects after the IVF procedure are:

• Bloating

• Breast Tenderness

• Constipation

• Mild Cramping

• Fluid Leakage (Maybe clear or slightly blood-tinged)

When to call your doctor?

If you notice any of the following symptoms after the IVF procedure then you should immediately call your doctor. These symptoms are:

• Heavy Vaginal Bleeding

• Fever over 100.5°F

• Pelvic Pain

(Also read: What is Ectopic Pregnancy?)

Side Effects to IVF Medications

The side effects of fertility medications may include:

• Headache

• Mood Swings

• Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome (OHSS) - Rare Cases

• Abdominal Pain

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• The best diet in pregnancy you should follow.

• Is eating potato beneficial for pregnant women or not? Learn

• Benefits of Strawberry during pregnancy

• Should we eat a banana in pregnancy or not? Benefits of eating a banana during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and it should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.